Now Commenting On:

Towers addresses trade rumors with Upton

Towers addresses trade rumors with Upton

CHICAGO -- D-backs general manager Kevin Towers met with Justin Upton on Friday to discuss the recent trade rumors involving the right fielder.

"We had a good conversation [on Friday], and I think he gets it," Towers said.

Towers created a stir when he confirmed reports that he would be willing to listen to trade offers for the 24-year-old Upton. Towers explained it by saying that it has always been his policy to listen to offers on any of his players, and he explained as much to Upton.

"I said, 'Hey, this is no different than the way I approached it even before you got to know me in 2010. I listen on everybody,'" Towers said. "We're in the information gathering business. I said, 'If something gets close, you'll be a part of the process. I'm not going to shock you with something. If something is coming down and I think it's close, there will be a heads up.' I said, 'At this point in time, a lot of people are kicking tires. Your name is out there a lot, most of it is untrue.'"

Towers also addressed his desire that the rumors not become a distraction for Upton, who is a key part of a lineup on a team battling for a playoff spot. He also reassured Upton that nothing is imminent.

"[I told him], 'I don't want that to be a distraction for you,'" Towers said. "'You're a big part of this club and we need you right now. If anything, you should look at it in a good way -- that people like you, not just the Diamondbacks, but you're perceived very well throughout baseball.'"